The new format will launch at the FT Digital Media Conference on 7 March at Grange St Paul’s Hotel in London, which attracts influential digital visionaries, media executives and entrepreneurs. Over two days, six sessions with distinguished speakers including Jimmy Wales, Founder of Wikipedia and Andy Bird, Chairman of Walt Disney International, will be live streamed on the website.
The FT first trialled live streaming during a panel debate at its FT Innovate conference in November 2011. Viewers were encouraged to log in online and ask UK digital champion Martha Lane Fox and FT management editor Andrew Hill questions live via Twitter. Online mentions of the FT Innovate event are estimated to have reached up to 3.5 million people in the space of a single hour.
Jayne Van Hoen, Managing Director, Global Conferences and Events at the Financial Times, said: “Social media has dramatically enhanced the reach and impact of our events in recent years with a rapidly increasing number of delegates sharing experiences and content online. Financial Times Live will reach a far greater global audience than previously possible, enabling participation for delegates who are unable to attend in person as well as a platform for pre and post event networking online.”
The FT’s conferences division has for 40 years delivered high-level summits, conferences and strategic forums, generating valuable content and outstanding networking opportunities. FT Conferences grew from 16 events in 2006 to 75 events last year. In 2011, FT Conferences enjoyed double-digit revenue growth.
For a flavour of what’s in store at the FT Digital Media Conference and to register for the live sessions, visit www.ft-live.com.
